Will a gap year hurt my chances of getting financial aid or housing?

Good news: taking a gap year won’t automatically boot you from the financial aid or housing line. Most colleges let you defer your admission and keep your aid package as long as you follow their rules. Just be sure to read the fine print and stay in touch with the admissions and financial aid offices. Some schools may want a formal request or an update on your gap year plans. As for housing, it usually resets with your new incoming class. So while you may not get the same dorm you dreamed of, you’ll still get a place to stash your stuff and sleep. Plan ahead, keep the school in the loop, and your gap year won’t mess with your college perks.